Latest news with #Musida

TimesLIVE
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Shudufhadzo Musida chats SA Style Award, Columbia University studies
Author, mental health advocate and former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida has completed her first year at Columbia University in New York City, where she is pursuing a master's degree in international affairs. Musida was also among the celebrities honoured at the 2025 South African Style Awards in Johannesburg on Sunday for Most Innovative Style — recognised for her distinctive personal expression and commitment to redefining beauty and identity through creativity and achievement. 'My relationship with fashion has come full circle,' Musida told TimesLIVE in New York. 'In high school I was different. I loved 1990s bohemian looks — boho chic. So I think the first time I wore a ball gown, I was 18 — wore it once, never wore it again. I only got into them during the [Miss SA] pageant. I'm a creative at heart.' The 28-year-old Miss South Africa 2020 reflected on her style evolution and personal style. 'My personal style depends on my mood, but it's definitely about feeling comfortable. I don't follow trends — I draw from different eras to show different parts of myself. I'm an 'old soul', but also playful — a tomboy who sometimes loves to dress up.' Musida, who was born in Ha-Masia, Limpopo, felt fulfilled after her first year at Columbia's School of International and Public Affairs. 'Living in New York has been one of the greatest gifts of my life,' she said. 'I'm focusing on economic and political development with a specialisation in leadership, innovation and design. 'I miss South Africa, but being able to do my masters at a school I've wanted to go to for the past 10 years has been an unforgettable life moment. I'm grateful to Phumzile [Mlambo-Ngcuka, former deputy president of South Africa] and so many who have helped make this journey possible. 'The experience of being Miss South Africa is something I'll forever be proud of. Another highlight has been the privilege of working with the UN Population Fund and witnessing the extraordinary efforts to advance gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and mental wellbeing.'

IOL News
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Shudu Musida's study break: dancing with nature and rediscovering joy
Shudu Musida at Lower Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona, specifically on Navajo Nation land near the Arizona-Utah border. Image: Instagram In the wake of exam stress, former Miss South Africa, Shudu Musida, is embracing the power of travel to rejuvenate both mind and spirit. Currently a student at Columbia University in New York, Musida recently embarked on an adventurous journey across the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest, sharing her colourful experiences through vibrant Instagram posts. 'We're so focused on building for the future that we forget to live sometimes. I've missed myself... Anyway, post-exam mood 😂🎀,' she joyfully exclaimed, showcasing her infectious spirit while dancing amidst a backdrop of striking canyons. On this exhilarating trip, Musida explored iconic destinations across three states, including the awe-inspiring Zion National Park, where red-rock canyons meet lush valleys, offering breathtaking views that leave visitors speechless. At Bryce Canyon, she explored the unique geological formations known as hoodoos - marvels of nature standing tall in hues of orange and pink under a vast blue sky. Her wanderlust fuelled a remarkable visit to Antelope Canyon, a narrow slot canyon renowned for its wave-like structure and beams of sunlight piercing through the rocks - truly a photographer's paradise. Finally, she gazed in wonder at Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River curves dramatically, creating a picturesque vista that is nothing short of magical. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading But it wasn't just the stunning scenery that captivated Musida. With gratitude spilling over, she expressed her appreciation for the connections forged on this journey. 'I am still in awe of this @intrepidtravel trip hosted by my girl @wawa_gatheru. Thank you for introducing me to incredible women in social impact, on a journey to rest, reconnect, and remember the power of sisterhood,' she shared. Amid long drives and joyous laughter, Musida found solace and solidarity among her new friends, filling her spirit with the gentle beauty of shared experiences. 'It felt like we'd known each other for years,' she reflected, highlighting the transformative power of travel. As Musida savours the beauty of nature and the bonds of friendship, she reminds us all that sometimes, the best way to overcome challenges is simply to take a step back, breathe, and embrace the world around us.